ZMF Auteur Classic

Discussion in 'Headphones' started by loadexfa, Jun 19, 2022.

  1. loadexfa

    loadexfa MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    With some fortunate timing I was able to get my Auteur upgraded to the Classic (they were already being refurbished). To be clear, Zach offered because he's so damn awesome. Sometimes I want to buy ZMF products just because I like the people so much. :D

    The Classic are a very nice step up from what I remember about the Auteur. Resolution, clarity, air, and bass extension are noticeably better. Timbre sounds more accurate and they are a smidge less rich. Like the discontinued iteration, they are neutrally tuned and versatile, good with any genre of music I've tried. The Classic are more lively than the older version but still pretty chill headphones. The Classic also solve the congestion I used to hear with the Auteur sometimes.

    Edit: The majority of my old Auteur memories are from the teak version which I had for a few years and I think the blackwood is part of why these are better, especially comments on liveliness, I remember noticing that as the main difference when I got these before they were upgraded. I think my impressions still hold up, I don't recall finding the blackwood timbre, resolution, clarity, air, and bass extension being better than my teaks before upgrading to the Classic but realized I should disclose to ensure people can interpret my impressions as accurately as possible.

    auteur1.png

    Chain
    Qobuz/RedBook -> Roon -> Ambre -> Pavane L3 ->A&S XLR to SE -> Stratus (Linlai 2A3, KR Rectifier)

    vs Atrium
    For comparison purposes, I went with stock pads on both (Auteur lambskin on Auteur Classic, universe lambskin on Atrium).

    Atrium
    • More open with better space between instruments
    • More slam
    • Better clarity and crisper percussion hits
    • Timbre sounds more real/accurate
    • Lively with a fuller sound
    Classic
    • More chill
    • Sometimes a bit dryer
    Both
    • Tone is very similar
    • Voices a bit recessed on both (or I'm used to more forward vocals of my modded LCD-4)

    In some ways the Classic sounds like a baby Atrium but the differences in resolution, timbre, and air can be pretty dramatic. It really depends on the music. Not surprised to find a "wall of sound" (Garbage from the 2000's, The Mars Volta) doesn't sound that different on each. Beethoven's 5th was much better on the Atrium. I was surprised the acoustic folk I tried was rather close. I think it's safe to say if you enjoy the Classic and want that resolution, openness, and a more lively sound, you'll probably enjoy the Atrium.

    auteur2.png

    Other Comparisons
    More are forthcoming. I experimented with pads since I had more pads to try with the Atrium loaner. I ended up preferring Universe pads and purchased some. Once they arrive I plan on comparing against the Clear OG and either the Atticus or LCD-4 (RD modded). If you want a comparison with anything in my signature, let me know and I'll add it.

    Pads
    I tried Auteur (suede and lambskin), Eikon (suede), and Universe (lambskin). Both the suede pads are smoother and more comfortable on my ears. That said, when I compared all of them, I preferred the Universe overall. Both the Universe and lambskin Auteur had more punch than the suede options and the Universe sounded more open and crisp with more forward voices than the Auteur pads.

    Final Thoughts
    Should you upgrade your Auteur or just get the Atrium? They are very similar and it's a hard call. I will probably end up with both, I'm rather attached to this gorgeous blackwood. If you don't want to spend at the Atrium level and are considering upgrading your Auteur, I'd recommend it, I found the improvements noticeable.

    atriumAuteurChain.png
     
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    Last edited: Jun 28, 2022
  2. gixxerwimp

    gixxerwimp Professional tricycle rider

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    Last edited: Jun 19, 2022
  3. Qildail

    Qildail Friend

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    Thanks so much for this write-up and the one on the Atrium, @loadexfa. I have one question — were there any instances (or music types) where you thought the Auteur Classic came over better overall than the Atrium; or was it always a case of Auteur Classic being “really good” and the Atrium being “even better”?

    @gixxerwimp ZMF is going to be offering upgrades to Auteurs to bring them up to some of the new design. @loadexfa had his already in for service. See https://www.superbestaudiofriends.o...eur-an-open-back-zmf.5088/page-27#post-384701
     
    Last edited: Jun 19, 2022
  4. loadexfa

    loadexfa MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    There's a video about CanJam Chicago which briefly mentions the Classic: https://superbestaudiofriends.org/i...eur-an-open-back-zmf.5088/page-27#post-384790

    Here's what Zach told me in an email exchange:
    The new classic has extended sub-bass and is slightly punchier without being bassier, the stage is a touch larger and they headphone is overall a touch more resolving. It has a new driver, driver placement and the Atrium damping system. The tuning is extremely close. It's kind of a re-refinement of the same sound.
     
  5. loadexfa

    loadexfa MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    I think it was 95% of the time I liked the Atrium better. Once in a while when the music didn't lend itself to taking advantage of the Atrium, being a little smoother (Classic) was appealing. Even then the Atrium is much lighter but that's probably more due to the blackwood than anything.
     
  6. dubharmonic

    dubharmonic Friend

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    I was able to hear the Auteur Classic (and the rest of the lineup) yesterday at CanJam Chicago! I’ve had a maple Auteur for several years. While I couldn’t do a direct comparison with my OG Auteur, the classic didn’t seem radically different. A little more detailed, a little more open, but bits that could have been the amps or DACs. The bigger magnet in the Atrium is definitely noticeable!

    [​IMG]

    The new OTL was a show highlight. Great pairing with any of the ZMF models I tried.
     
  7. chesebert

    chesebert Acquaintance

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    Classic sounded better on the solid state whereas Atrium sounded better on 300B rig.
     
  8. loadexfa

    loadexfa MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    For what it's worth, my Classic sounds fantastic on the Stratus and a prototype ZD Moth amp (warmer than the ZD) and mediocre on the LauX. Not that I'm disagreeing with what you heard but it's probably best to categorize this as synergy rather than a sweeping statement about solid state vs tubes for these headphones. Also, which specific amps?
     
  9. chesebert

    chesebert Acquaintance

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    That’s a fair comment. SS rig was Lina, don’t remember the tube system. Both Atrium and Classic sounded good and were fairly close to each other with Atrium’s mid range having a slight graininesses that I did not hear with Classic. They both have slightly different upper mid and treble peaks that I was not a fan of. I could probably make either work.
     
  10. donpablo

    donpablo New

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    Auteur Classic being released on July 15th or 17th, Im not sure yet from this YT video.
     
  11. insidious meme

    insidious meme Ambivalent Kumquat

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    From the email:

    [​IMG]
     
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  12. edd

    edd Almost "Made"

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    Zach posted some info on head fi:
    auteur classic stock wood with Black/Black Chassis/Grille: $1499

    auteur classic upgrade first owner: $400

    auteur classic upgrade second hand market: $600

    Warranty renewed on all upgrades


    and:

    Much promised logistics:

    NOTE: We are limiting the upgrade process to a certain number of units at a time. Please sign up to our email list to be notified when the classic upgrade list will open. The date we will first accept upgrades is July 15th.

    Upgrading gets you:
    • New auteur Classic drivers
    • auteur Classic Wood Baffle
    • Atrium damping system (ADS)
    • Titan Mesh
    • Replaced Driver Grille's if needed to Moulded Version
    • Full Headphone QC/measurement and recommended optional improvements
    Note: If your auteur earpads are worn, and we are unable to get a match, you will be charged for a new set of pads.

    Upgrade Process:
    1. You will pay 50% at checkout.
    2. Within 48 hours you will receive an email with shipping instructions. Ship your headphones to us! You are responsible for all ship costs.
    3. After we receive the headphones, you will be notified and your headphone will be upgraded to the classic within 3 weeks. When in process, if any refurbishment is recommended or offered, you will receive and email with these options and costs.
    4. When done you'll receive an invoice for the final payment and shipping.
    5. Enjoy your new re-warranted auteur classic! All orders include the lifetime driver warranty, aesthetics are not covered.
     
  13. insidious meme

    insidious meme Ambivalent Kumquat

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  14. Senorx12562

    Senorx12562 Case of the mondays

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    The ZMF stuff is the only audio gear that still gives me a twinge of upgradeitis. Just a twinge, mind, still can't afford it.:cool:
     
  15. Aklegal

    Aklegal Friend

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    I had decided to buy an original Auteur right after ZMF ran out of drivers. Now after re-reading the Atticus thread, I am thinking that they might be more of my speed. I'm not sure if I should get the Auteur classic or the Atticus. My favorite all-time headphone is my KISS HD 650s. I own the LCD2C which I love for the bass but find the midrange on up a bit too recessed for anything but modern pop music. I had the Elex for quite some time but found the HD650 to just be better.
     
  16. loadexfa

    loadexfa MOT: rhythmdevils audio

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    Based on your preferences I agree the Atticus is more likely what you’d enjoy most. Another benefit is the Atticus is less amp picky than the Auteur. I recommend waiting for a limited wood run if you have the patience, so worth it for a more unique version IMO. I have the ziricote Atticus, it’s so sexy and perfect for when I want that type of sound. I prefer the suede pads so it’s not too boomy or punchy.

    That said, if possible, it’s always best to try at a meet or something first.
     
  17. joch

    joch Friend

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    If you have one of the older LCD2Cs with memory foam pads have you tried changing the stock pleather pads for the new leather ones? Rhythmdevils has a thread on the new Audeze pads. The swap improved the LCD2C for me.
     
  18. JonCharles

    JonCharles Friend

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    To anyone that has gotten their ears on these, how open and spacious sounding is it compared to the HD650? The atrium damping system is intriguing to me, because it might alleviate the bit of claustrophobia that some experienced with the original.

    Edit: Couldn't help myself and bought these. Just received them today. Not claustrophobic at all if your point of reference is HD650.
     
    Last edited: Aug 24, 2022

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